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Marijne's Mantra: Discipline, Defence, and Relentless Running Lead India to Asian Games Gold
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News18•02-10-2026, 20:45
Marijne's Mantra: Discipline, Defence, and Relentless Running Lead India to Asian Games Gold
- •India women's hockey team secured Asian Games gold and 2028 LA Olympics qualification by defeating China 1-0, following coach Sjoerd Marijne's mantra of discipline, defence, and relentless running.
- •Lalremsiami's first-quarter goal was decisive, but India's resolute defending and tireless effort ensured China couldn't equalize despite sustained pressure.
- •Goalkeepers Savita Punia and Bichu Devi were crucial, with Savita making a pivotal penalty-stroke save to maintain India's lead.
- •Marijne emphasized effectiveness over possession, highlighting the team's ability to capitalize on opportunities and the collective effort of players and support staff.
- •The victory marks a significant turnaround for the team under Marijne, attributed to renewed discipline and a focus on collective goals, securing early Olympic qualification for the first time.
Key Questions Answered
India defeated defending champions China 1-0 in the final, with Lalremsiami scoring a decisive first-quarter strike to secure the gold medal and an automatic qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Prior to their triumph in Kakamigahara, India's last women's hockey gold medal at the Asian Games was won in 1982.
Savita Punia and Bichu Devi played crucial roles in keeping China at bay, with Savita making a vital penalty-stroke save to deny the defending champions an equaliser.
